i think he will do a great job as secretary of defense. and i think in his confirmation hearings all of these issues that you've raised, that others have raised, he'll be prepared to deal with. >> also new today, senator john mccain offering new insight into his concern about this nomination. >> what is his view of america's role in the world? whether he really believes that the surge was the worst blunder since the vietnam war. that clearly is not -- that's not correct. i mean, in fact, it's bizarre. why would he oppose calling the iranian revolutionary guard a terrorist organization? these are legitimate questions that need to be asked. i honor his service. we are friends. but i have an obligation to the men and women who are now serving in uniform. >> let's go now to nbc news white house correspondent peter alexander. so peter, with a good sunday to you, my friend. lots of reaction on the sunday talk shows on this hagel fight. has it reached a new level, and do you think this suggests it's going to be a bit tougher than the president en